"Guardians of the Galaxy" Nabs Biggest Thursday Opening of 2014

"Guardians of the Galaxy" nabbed a record-breaking $11.2 million in preview screenings Thursday night.

Variety reports that Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy" has secured the biggest Thursday opening numbers of 2014 with a grand total of $11.2 million from late night preview screenings. "Guardians" broke the record previously held by Marvel's "Captain America: The Winter Soldier," which opened with $10.2 million. According to Variety, $1.9 million of "Guardians'" impressive box office take came from Imax screenings.

Considering the anticipation for "Guardians of the Galaxy" and the positive reviews -- the film currently sits at 91% on Rotten Tomatoes -- it's no wonder that the film broke records during its preview screenings. The film is currently estimated to earn as much as $70 million over the course of the weekend, which would make it the best August opening weekend of all time. Of course, "Guardians of the Galaxy" having the widest August opening in history with 4,080 theaters -- and 3,200 of them carrying 3D showings -- with more showings in 42 international territories.